Cal Thomas: The hunger games
In the United States, an alarming 42 million individuals—about 12.3% of the population—rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps. This statistic, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), raises serious questions about food security in the wealthiest nation on Earth, highlighting a systemic issue that many believe should be a source of national shame rather than pride. Recently, the SNAP program has become embroiled in the ongoing government shutdown, with President Trump announcing plans to utilize contingency funds to cover only 50% of SNAP benefits for November, leaving recipients uncertain about future support. Despite two federal judges ordering the restoration of funds, the situation remains precarious, emphasizing the urgent need for a reevaluation of why so many Americans are dependent on food assistance.
The USDA estimates that around 11.7% of SNAP benefits—approximately $10.5 billion—are classified as “improper payments,” which include fraud and administrative errors. This figure points to a significant problem within the program, with overpayments primarily stemming from household mistakes and mismanagement. Notably, there has been a troubling surge in fraudulent transactions, with a reported 55% increase between late fiscal 2024 and early fiscal 2025. The article suggests that addressing these issues could garner bipartisan support, particularly among Republicans, who might favor eliminating waste and fraud as a means to improve the program. Additionally, it raises the question of the work and job training requirements for able-bodied individuals receiving SNAP benefits, advocating for policies that encourage financial independence rather than prolonged reliance on government assistance.
The historical context of food assistance programs in the U.S. dates back to 1939, initiated during the Great Depression. While these programs were initially necessary, they have persisted even during more prosperous times, leading to a growing dependency on government aid. The article critiques the current political landscape, suggesting that both parties exploit SNAP benefits as a bargaining chip in their ongoing conflict, with Senate Democrats accused of leveraging the program to gain political advantage during the shutdown. The author argues for a cultural shift, advocating for personal responsibility and familial support systems before turning to government resources. Ultimately, the piece underscores the need for comprehensive reform in SNAP, emphasizing that while there are solutions to these issues, the political focus on maintaining power often hinders genuine progress for those in need.
There are an estimated
42 million
people receiving food aid from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (
SNAP
), formerly known as food stamps. The figure represents
12.3 percent
of the U.S. population, according to the USDA. In the richest nation on Earth that is not something to brag about. It is, or ought to be, a disgrace.
SNAP is a casualty of the government “shutdown,” though two federal judges have
ordered
the Trump administration to restore funds to the program. On Monday, President Trump said he will use a contingency fund to cover only
50 percent
of SNAP benefits for November, but none after that if the government doesn’t open.
Now would be a good time to ask why so many Americans seek food assistance. A starting point that should get political support (at least from Republicans) would be the elimination of mistakes, waste and fraud in the SNAP program.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which administers SNAP for the states,
estimates
that in fiscal year 2023 approximately 11.7 percent of SNAP benefits, or about $10.5 billion, were “improper payments,” including fraud and other errors. While overpayments from household errors and administrative mistakes make up the largest portion of these improper payments, the USDA and other experts also report significant issues with benefit trafficking and recent surges in theft. For example, a 55 percent increase in fraudulent transactions occurred between the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.
The first food assistance programs were
established in 1939
during the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Like so many other government programs, when the Depression ended and the need for food assistance subsided, the programs continued and new people were added, even during periods of prosperity.
Following the elimination of improper payments, there should be a focus on the able-bodied who are not working. There is a work and job training requirement for people receiving SNAP benefits. Whether those without children are meeting that requirement should be investigated. The goal should be to wean people off government assistance and toward financial independence. The elderly and those with physical or mental disabilities who qualify, should continue receiving food assistance.
Whatever happened to children caring for their parents who are in need? Adult children with resources should be required to help their parents before turning to the government.
Senate Democrats, most of whom have refused to vote to open the government, continue to use SNAP – as well as air traffic controllers and other vital services – to extort political capital from Republicans. So far it appears to be working. A recent
Quinnipiac
poll found that voters blame Republicans slightly more than Democrats for the shutdown.
Too many Americans believe they are entitled to other people’s money and that it is government’s responsibility to take care of every citizen (and some non-citizens) from cradle to grave. Maybe Congress should be listed among those who are “non-essential” and have their pay suspended. Watch how quickly the government would open again should that occur.
Nearly every problem has a solution. The problem for politicians is that if they solve a problem, they no longer have an issue with which to bash the other party. As long as holding on to political office remains their top priority, nothing will change. More people will come to rely on government, which will help the Democrats, but it will be bad for the country and the people who have become addicted to government.
Readers may email Cal Thomas at
tcaeditors@tribpub.com
. Look for Cal Thomas’ latest book “A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America” (HumanixBooks).
